this was posted on 8/2/26 Tillamook County Pioneer.
i have shortened, leaving the essential information, to make simpler messaging.
please share with others.
om peace namaste
lucy brook
WORDS OF WISDOM: Are You Registered To Vote?
Posted on August 2, 2026 by Editor
by Neal Lemery
Now is a good time to make sure your voice is heard, and that you are taking on a vital role in our community’s life and our civic affairs. Voting is an essential part of citizenship and being engaged in our community.
“The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter.” – Dwight Eisenhower
“We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.” – Thomas Jefferson
Being a registered voter allows you to have a role in who our leaders are. Our officials are elected by us, and govern in our name. Voters can sign petitions to pass new laws, repeal current laws, amend the Oregon Constitution, vote on local law changes (referendums and initiative petitions) and recall elected officials. Voters can sign petitions to put local and state candidates on the ballot. You are able to serve on juries in local and federal court cases.
Along with our free speech rights and the right to peacefully assemble and petition the government, our ability to be involved voters is a fundamental cornerstone of our democratic republic.
“Registering to vote in Oregon is quick and simple. Oregonians can register:
Online using My Vote.
By mail using a voter registration form.
In person at the county elections office or at certain state agencies like the DMV.
Tillamook County Clerk’s website.
Citizenship is a duty and a responsibility. Theodore Hesburgh, the late president of Notre Dame University, called voting a civil sacrament. Millions of Americans made great sacrifices to ensure we have our voting rights and that we continue to strengthen and grow our republican form of government and live up to our democratic principles. Regardless of our own particular viewpoints, we should ensure everyone’s rights to be heard and to be part of our national decision making. That’s part of our job as citizens.